KIND-hearted animal lovers are being urged to come forward to volunteer as puppy walkers.

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association is appealing for people who can care for and educate guide dog pups from six weeks of age for a year, when they begin their guide dog training.

Sue Cole, the guide dogs' puppy walking supervisor, said: "Puppy walking is challenging and it is a commitment but our volunteers find it extremely rewarding and worthwhile."

The young dogs spend much of their first year with the volunteers who teach basic obedience and get the pups used to a home environment, noise and bustle of towns.

Puppy walkers need access to a car and will have to be home for most of the day. They will also need to take their puppy to varied environments and have a secure garden.

Guide Dogs supplies basic equipment and covers all veterinary and feeding expenses.

For more information about becoming a puppy walker call Wendy Prestidge on 01926 337244.